Michael Franti

Michael Franti (born April 21, 1966) is an American poet, musician, and composer. He is the founder and lead vocalist of Michael Franti & Spearhead, a band that blends hip hop with a variety of other styles including funk, reggae, jazz, folk, and rock. He is also an outspoken supporter for a wide spectrum social justice issues.
Franti began his music career in 1986 as part of the industrial punk band The Beatnigs. The Beatnigs included dancer and percussionist Rono Tse. His next project, The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, found Franti continuing his collaboration with Tse, and working with jazz guitarist Charlie Hunter, and electronic musicians Mark Pistel (Consolidated) and Jack Dangers... Continue Bio >>